Best Foods for your Teeth
- Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. Dr. Mann often says, “An apple a day keeps the dentist away.” They work by physically scrubbing your teeth and stimulating salivary flow by requiring longer chewing times. Saliva is important in fighting cavities, because it washes teeth and neutralizes tooth-damaging acids. Saliva also contains calcium and phosphates that help rebuild vital minerals in enamel. Besides being a delicious snack; crunchy, juicy fruits and vegetables also have high water content that helps clean teeth as you enjoy. High-fiber foods are very important for an overall healthy diet, so load up on fruits and veggies.
2. Foods such as eggs, fish, whole grains, spinach, leafy green vegetables, and poultry are high in vitamins A, C and D as well as calcium and phosphorus. These vitamins and minerals help make tooth enamel stronger. In moderation these foods can be part of an overall healthy diet, as well.
3. Your favorite nuts are good for your gums and teeth as well. Peanuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios and walnuts are high in calcium, vitamin D, fiber, folic acid, iron, magnesium, niacin, Vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium and Zinc.
4. Green, black teas and even coffee contain polyphenols. These polyphenols prevent tooth bacteria from growing or producing tooth-attacking acid. As long as you don’t load these beverages with sugar, they will keep your teeth healthy and strong. Teas and coffee can stain your teeth over time. It’s recommended to have biannual dental cleanings to remove these stains. Professional teeth whitening is also an option to keep teeth looking white and healthy.
5. Water is the main constituent of saliva. When you’re on the go and don’t have time to brush and floss after a meal, use water as a valuable rinsing agent. New York tap water is fluoridated to fight cavities. Fluoride works by embedding itself within the tooth enamel matrix to make the enamel stronger. This helps prevent tooth decay by rebuilding the tooth enamel.
Following a healthy diet will help keep your mind, body, and oral health at its peak. It’s also advisable to see a dentist every 6 months for a routine check-up and cleaning. This will help avoid costly and preventable dental emergencies in the future.
